Which item is beneficial in cleaning contaminated PPE effectively?

Using heavy-duty liquid detergent for cleaning contaminated personal protective equipment (PPE) is beneficial because it is designed to effectively break down and remove various contaminants, including oils, pesticides, and other hazardous chemicals. Detergents contain surfactants that help lift dirt and residues from surfaces. This makes them more effective than just water in ensuring that the PPE is thoroughly cleaned and safe for reuse.

While cold water can assist in rinsing off surface contaminants, it is not as effective at dissolving or emulsifying residues. Bleach, although a disinfectant, could potentially damage certain materials used in PPE and might not effectively remove all types of contaminants, especially if they are non-microbial in nature. Plain water can serve as a rinse but lacks the necessary cleaning properties to ensure that all harmful residues are removed.

Heavy-duty liquid detergent, therefore, stands out as the most effective option for cleaning contaminated PPE, ensuring both safety and usability in subsequent applications.